Recommendations Needed For Newbie

[Mainous]

All,

I just purchased a clean 98 Grand Am GT with a bad 3100 engine and automatic trans. The car has 158k miles on it. I just located and signed up for the site. These forums are fantastic for sharing information. Obviously I need to buy a new engine and/or drivetrain for this car. From what I can see there are advantages in going with the later model 3400, if nothing else other than availability. Can anyone recommend a year range and engine that I should be shopping for? Is it possible to go with a later model trans if I find a complete drivetrain from a later model vehicle? Any and all input is appreciated.

Thanks,
Jeff

[1QUICKHATCH]

if this is your first swap I would start with a 3400 to keep things a little more simple. if not you get a 3500 for a reasonable price and low milage, but it is a little more work than the 3400.

[Mainous]

Thanks for your reply. I'm by no means new to swapping engines but I would like to keep this as straight forward as possible. I'm not out to build a race car just a reliable piece for my daughter. I've read the swap guide and it appears that the newer 3400's are a direct bolt in with only differences in sensors and injectors. What am I missing?

Thanks,
Jeff

[1QUICKHATCH]

I would get a 2000-2003 3400 and get a plenum for a 96-99 3400 so your egr still bolts up. other than that its just sensors and some other minor things that you will notice with bothe engines on the ground!

[Mainous]

Thanks for your input. I have located a 2003 3400. You mention using the intake from an older 3400. Can I just use the adaptor menioned in the swap guide?

Thanks,
Jeff

[Mainous]

Disregard my last question regarding the EGR. I see now that I didn't read the guide close enough. Again, thanks for the input.

Jeff

[Mainous]

Got Motor In - Exhaust Question

Got my 3400 bolted in, connected, and running. I have only one issue (for now). The exhaust flange on the 3400 is bigger in diameter than my 3100. Has anyone been here before that can offer advice? The entire exhaust is shot on this car so can I just start over using a 2000-Up downpipe? Is it possible to bolt a 99-Up exhaust on a 96-98?

Your input is appreciated...

Thanks,
Jeff

[Superdave]

I'd just swap on the old 3100 exhaust manifolds..